Target recalls baby wipes over potential risk of life-threatening infections
Target Corporation is initiating a voluntary recall of select Up & Up branded baby wipes due to potential microbial contamination. This decision follows customer complaints and subsequent testing conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which identified traces of harmful bacteria in the affected products.
The recall affects both the Up & Up Fragrance-Free and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes. In light of the findings, Target and its Turkish supplier, Sapro Temizlik Urunleri, have received multiple reports from customers indicating they experienced symptoms such as skin and eye irritation, as well as infections following the use of these wipes. Complaints also included observations of discoloration in the product.
According to the FDA notice, the contamination risk is particularly concerning as the wipes contain the bacteria Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioi. These microorganisms may lead to severe, even life-threatening infections, particularly in vulnerable populations including newborns, infants, and young children whose immune systems are still developing.
The agency’s announcement underscores the potential dangers of using these contaminated products, warning that they could result in serious health complications, such as sepsis or pneumonia, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. As of the announcement, investigations into the reports of contamination are ongoing, with Target coordinating efforts with the manufacturer.
Consumers who possess the recalled wipes are advised to cease use immediately and return the products to any Target location for a complete refund. The affected wipes, which were sold nationwide at Target stores and online through the retailer’s website, had various manufacturing and expiration dates, making it essential for customers to check their product packaging against the recall details.
To identify the recalled wipes, customers should look for specific manufacturing date codes ranging from November 7, 2025, to May 5, 2026, for the fragrance-free variant and from December 29, 2025, to December 30, 2025, for those scented with fresh cucumber. The recall includes various packaging sizes, each corresponding to their respective Universal Product Codes (UPCs), which are also detailed in the FDA notice.
Those with further questions or concerns regarding the recall can contact Target Guest Relations during specified hours.
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